AZ Alkmaar vs Galatasaray in AFAS Stadium: Match Preview, Predictions, Lineups & Live Score

By Fulltime On Feb 13, 2025

On February 13, 2025, at 21:00 CET, AZ Alkmaar vs Galatasaray in AFAS Stadium is set to be one of the most exciting clashes in the UEFA Europa League knockout-stage playoffs. The Dutch and Turkish football giants will battle it out for a crucial victory that could determine their progression in the tournament. With both teams in impressive form and eager to advance, this match promises an electrifying contest full of action, strategy, and key individual performances.

Match Overview: AZ Alkmaar vs Galatasaray in AFAS Stadium

Current Form and Standings

AZ Alkmaar: Sitting 19th in the Europa League standings with 11 points, AZ Alkmaar has shown resilience and strength at home, boasting a solid record of three wins and one draw at AFAS Stadium. Their home-ground advantage could play a crucial role in their performance.
Galatasaray: Positioned 14th in the Europa League with 13 points, Galatasaray has had a mixed run of form. While their attacking prowess is evident, their recent 2-1 loss to Ajax raised some concerns. However, a 4-1 victory against Boluspor in the Turkish Cup has boosted their confidence heading into this fixture.

Head-to-Head Record

The two sides have only met once before in the Europa League group stage, resulting in a 1-1 draw. This sets the stage for an evenly matched contest, with both teams eager to break the deadlock and claim victory.

Team News and Predicted Lineups

AZ Alkmaar

Injury Concerns:

Ruben Van Bommel (Left winger – injury)
Ibrahim Sadiq (Unavailable)
Sam Westerveld (Backup goalkeeper – injury)

Predicted Lineup:

Goalkeeper: Jeroen Zoet
Defenders: Denso Kasius, Alexandre Penetra, Wouter Goes, David Møller Wolfe
Midfielders: Peer Koopmeiners, Dave Kwakman, Kees Smit
Forwards: Sven Mijnans, Mexx Meerdink, Troy Parrott

Galatasaray

Injury Concerns:

Mauro Icardi (Cruciate ligament tear – unavailable)
Ismail Jakobs (Achilles tendon injury – unavailable)

Predicted Lineup:

Goalkeeper: Fernando Muslera
Defenders: Kaan Ayhan, Davinson Sánchez, Abdülkerim Bardakcı, Berkan Kutlu
Midfielders: Yunus Akgün, Lucas Torreira, Gabriel Sara, Barış Yılmaz
Forwards: Victor Osimhen, Dries Mertens

Key Players to Watch

AZ Alkmaar: Sven Mijnans has been instrumental in the team’s attacking play, providing creativity and goal-scoring prowess.
Galatasaray: Victor Osimhen’s pace and finishing skills make him a constant threat to any defense.

Match Prediction

AZ Alkmaar’s solid home record gives them an edge, but Galatasaray’s attacking options remain dangerous. A 2-2 draw or a narrow AZ Alkmaar win (2-1) seems the most likely outcome, with both teams finding the back of the net.

Weather Forecast for Match Day

Temperature: Around 4°C (40°F)
Conditions: Cloudy and cold, which may impact the players’ stamina and ball movement.

Live Score and Match Updates

Stay tuned for real-time live scores and updates during the match. Fans can follow the game on:

Official UEFA platforms
Sports streaming services
Live football score websites

FAQs

1. When and where is the match taking place?

The match is scheduled for February 13, 2025, at 21:00 CET at the AFAS Stadium in Alkmaar, Netherlands.

2. How can I watch the match live?

The game will be broadcast on various sports channels and streaming platforms. Check your local listings for availability.

3. What was the result of their last meeting?

The last match between AZ Alkmaar and Galatasaray ended in a 1-1 draw during the group stage.

4. Are there any notable injuries?

Yes, AZ Alkmaar will be missing Ruben Van Bommel, Ibrahim Sadiq, and Sam Westerveld, while Galatasaray will be without Mauro Icardi and Ismail Jakobs.

5. What is at stake in this match?

This is the first leg of the UEFA Europa League knockout-stage playoffs, meaning the winner will have a crucial advantage going into the second leg.

Conclusion

The AZ Alkmaar vs Galatasaray in AFAS Stadium match is set to be an electrifying battle between two determined teams. With both sides boasting strong attacking players and tactical depth, fans can expect an intense and entertaining contest. Don’t miss out on this high-stakes clash in the UEFA Europa League playoffs!

External Links

For more detailed information, visit:

Quick Facts Table

Statistic	AZ Alkmaar	Galatasaray
Europa League Position	19th	14th
Points in Group Stage	11	13
Recent Form (Last 5 Games)	W-L-W-D-W	W-L-D-W-W